Obituary

Raymond M. “Buddy” Sprouse, 92, passed away peacefully on September 29, 2023, in Chesterfield, Virginia. He was born December 8, 1930, and proudly lived his entire life in Chesterfield. He is predeceased by his parents, William Walter and Macie Lee Sprouse, and four brothers, Charles, James, Richard and Wayne Sprouse. He is survived by his wife of 72 years, Frances “Frankie” Sprouse; two daughters, Brenda Howell and Susan Dyke (Butch); four grandchildren, Andrew (Kara), Matthew and their father, Ray Howell, Adam (Victoria), and Emily; one sister, Iona Reiordan, and many nieces and nephews.

Buddy started his working career at Cities Service Oil Company. He then worked for Chesterfield County, for over 20 years, retiring in 1990.

He married Frances in 1951 and was inducted into the Army shortly thereafter. He served in Germany and subsequently served in the Reserves and was Honorably Discharged with the rank of Sergeant. He was very proud to be a veteran.

Buddy was a charter member of Southside Baptist Church and was a faithful member until his passing. He was also a charter member of the Dale Volunteer Fire Department Company 11, serving as District Chief for several years.

Buddy was also an Honorable Member of the American Legion and held multiple officer positions during his membership. He joined the Chesterfield Masonic Lodge No. 161, was a Master Mason, and was a member of the Manchester Lodge No. 14 at the time of his death.

He further served his community as a member of the Dale Ruritan Club. He was a Tom Downing Fellow and received much recognition and many awards for his service, including Ruritan of the Year. He worked tirelessly on many of the Clubs building projects, and especially loved making Brunswick stew and participating in the monthly community dinners.

Buddy was dedicated to serving his community and was a friend and mentor to many. He loved working in his garage and could fix almost anything. He enjoyed sitting on his swing on the carport, waving to and visiting all who passed by. He also loved cooking and made and delivered his famous peanut brittle to all of his family, friends, and anyone he thought would enjoy it. He had many special friends and neighbors whom he could count on for support, including his family at the Barrington.

A memorial service, with Military Honors and Masonic Rites, will be held at Transformation Church (formerly Southside Baptist Church), 6000 Ironbridge Road, North Chesterfield, on October 4, 2023, at 11:00 a.m., followed by a fellowship gathering at the Dale Ruritan Club, 5101 Ruritan Place, North Chesterfield.